Virtual reality-based training improves thoracentesis skills in medical interns: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Virtual Reality Applications

Background:

• Thoracentesis is a crucial procedure with limited training opportunities due to patient safety concerns.
• Virtual reality (VR) offers a safe, repeatable method for simulation-based medical training.
• The efficacy of VR for thoracentesis training requires rigorous evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of VR-based simulation training for thoracentesis compared to traditional methods.
• To assess the impact of VR training on the procedural skills of medical interns.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 20 medical interns assigned to VR or traditional training groups.
• VR group: 1 hour/day, 4 days/week for 3 weeks of VR simulation.
• Control group: Traditional mannequin-based practice.
• Outcomes assessed using a 300-point rubric over 4 weeks.

Main Results:

• No adverse events were reported in either group.
• VR group showed an initial learning curve (lower scores at week 2) but significantly outperformed the control group by week 4 (p < 0.01).
• 80% of the VR group achieved excellent scores (≥270 points) versus 10% in the control group.

Conclusions:

• VR-based training enhances thoracentesis procedural skills following an initial adaptation period.
• VR simulation serves as a valuable supplement to conventional medical education.
• Preliminary findings suggest VR's utility, warranting further investigation with larger sample sizes.